Reporting Child Abuse

If you believe that a child is in immediate danger of serious harm: Call 911.

In non-emergency situations, report cases of suspected child abuse, neglect or dependency by phone, in person or in writing as follows:

Phone Line: 937-327-1748 or 800-516-3463

Fax Number: 937-327-1910

Address:
1345 Lagonda Avenue
P.O. Box 967A
Springfield, OH 45501-1037

After Hours Line
On weekdays after 4:30 p.m., on weekends or during holidays, call the FCS emergency after-hours line: 937-328-2560.

Who Is Required to Report
Anyone may make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect. However, some individuals are required by law to report concerns of child abuse, neglect and dependency. This includes, but is not limited to:

Attorneys

Counselors

Medical/health personnel

School and day care personnel

Therapists

(Ohio Revised Code 2151.421)

What Information Is Needed to Make a Report?

The name and address of the child you suspect is being abused or neglected

The age of the child

The name and address of the parents or caretakers

The name of the person you suspect is abusing or neglecting the child and the address if available

The reason you suspect the child is being abused or neglected

Any other information which may be helpful to the investigation

You have the option of giving your name or reporting anonymously. Giving your name can help the investigator clarify information. The agency will not give your name to the person suspected of abusing or neglecting the child.

Please note: All of the above information is not needed to make a report. If you are not sure you have enough information to report, always err on the safety of the child. Children services screens all reports to determine if there is enough information to investigate.

Reporting sources are kept confidential. They can be disclosed only with a court order or a signed release of information by the person reporting.